Captain Benjamin Hornigold: A Complicated Past

The Complicated Life of Captain Benjamin Hornigold

Captain Benjamin Hornigold, portrayed by British actor Patrick Lyster in the TV series Black Sails, is a character defined by his piracy. However, his historical connection to the English Jacobite movement adds depth to his story. Hornigold's life was marked by complex political alliances and affiliations, shaping his identity and the overarching narrative of Black Sails.

Benjamin Hornigold in Black Sails

While the show portrays him as a supporting character, understanding his historical context provides important insights into the complexities of the Golden Age of Piracy. The truth behind this era, as depicted in Black Sails, goes beyond the romanticized notion of personal rebellion and adventure. It delves into the tumultuous political climate and the impact of the Jacobite movement on individuals like Captain Benjamin Hornigold.

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Captain Benjamin Hornigold's Jacobite Affiliation

According to Black Sails, Captain Benjamin Hornigold was an avowed Jacobite before turning to piracy, aligning himself with the Stuart dynasty of British monarchs. While historical sources are unclear about the depth of his commitment to the Jacobite cause, the show highlights the significance of this affiliation in shaping his identity and that of his crew.

In the first season of Black Sails, Hornigold's association with the Jacobites is clearly established. His discovery of James Francis Edward Stuart's escape to France puts him in a challenging position, as he must reconcile his crew's shift from Catholic insurgents to common criminals. This connection to the Jacobite movement sheds light on Hornigold's transition from a supporter of a preferred king to a pirate, illustrating the failure of the political campaign and its impact on individuals like him.

The Role of the Jacobites in the Golden Age of Piracy

The Jacobites played a significant role in shaping the Golden Age of Piracy depicted in Black Sails. The conflict between the Houses of Stuart and Hanover during the War of the Spanish Succession had far-reaching implications, especially in the Caribbean where privateering became prevalent.

Following the conclusion of the War of the Spanish Succession and the ascension of George I to the British throne, many Stuart-sympathizing Jacobite privateers found themselves politically isolated. This, combined with their experience in privateering, led to a shift towards full-blown piracy as a means of livelihood. The context of this political landscape explains the transformation of characters like Captain Benjamin Hornigold into infamous pirates, adding depth to their portrayal in Black Sails.